objects in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "objects in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to specific items or subjects that are being discussed or examined. Example: "The researchers focused on the objects in question to determine their significance in the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

He is persuaded that the objects in question are forgeries.

Nature

"We're doing everything we can to satisfy their concerns about the objects in question".

The New York Times - Arts

(Macho is an acronym for the "massive compact halo objects" in question).

The New York Times - Science

This is naturally the most direct evidence, since the objects in question are inspected by the judge or jury themselves.

Britannica

The objects in question are not the supermassive black holes found at the core of many galaxies.

The New York Times

The objects in question were lead balls, one the size of a watermelon, the other the size of a baseball.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Although this characterization of abstract objects is purely negative indicating what such objects are not in the context of mathematics it captures the crucial features the objects in questions are supposed to have.

SEP

What faults may have existed with the object in question?

The New York Times

In "Happy Love," the object in question is the hamster, Peanut.

The New Yorker

An airline spokesman said later the object in question was a comb.

The New York Times

Only together are they able to view the object in question accurately and in its entirety.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "objects in question", ensure the context clearly identifies which objects are being referred to. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific details or prior references.

Common error

Avoid using "objects in question" without establishing what those objects are in the preceding text. Always provide clear context to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "objects in question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies specific items or subjects that are being considered, examined, or discussed, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "objects in question" is a versatile and commonly used term to refer to specific items or subjects under discussion or examination. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While it's considered correct, ensuring clarity in defining the objects is crucial for effective communication. Alternatives such as "items at issue" or "subjects under discussion" can be used for a more formal tone. Remember to provide clear context to avoid vagueness and enhance understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

items at issue

Replaces "objects" with "items" and "question" with "issue", focusing on the point of contention.

subjects under discussion

Emphasizes the act of discussing the items, framing them as topics rather than physical objects.

matters in hand

Highlights the immediacy and relevance of the items being considered.

elements under consideration

Focuses on the act of careful thought and evaluation of the items.

things being examined

Replaces "objects" with "things", emphasizing scrutiny and investigation.

items being investigated

Highlights the investigative aspect and replaces object with items.

relevant items

Simplifies the phrase by focusing on the relevance of the objects.

aforementioned items

Refers back to items previously mentioned, adding a formal tone.

specific items

Emphasizes the particular and distinct nature of the objects.

designated objects

Highlights that the objects have been selected for a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "objects in question" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "items at issue", "aforementioned items", or "subjects under discussion".

Is it appropriate to use "objects in question" in academic writing?

Yes, "objects in question" is appropriate for academic writing, especially when referring to specific items or subjects being analyzed. However, ensure the context clearly defines what the objects are.

What's the difference between "objects in question" and "relevant items"?

"Objects in question" typically refers to items that have already been introduced or are currently under scrutiny. "Relevant items" simply highlights the importance or pertinence of certain items without necessarily indicating they are being examined.

How can I use "objects in question" in a sentence?

Example: "The researchers focused on the "objects in question" to determine their significance in the study." You can also say "The committee reviewed the "objects in question" before making a final decision."